ESTONIANS

Estonians are an ethnic group native to Estonia, speaking Estonian, a Finnic language in the Uralic family. They form the majority of the population in Estonia and are also found in neighboring regions and in the global diaspora. The Estonian language uses the Latin alphabet and exhibits features typical of Finnic languages, including vowel harmony and extensive case endings.

Historically, the peoples who would become Estonians settled in the eastern Baltic region during the first millennium. Christianization began in the 12th and 13th centuries under the Northern Crusades. Over the ensuing centuries, Estonia was ruled by various powers, including Denmark, the Livonian Order, Sweden, and Russia. Modern Estonian independence was declared in 1918, interrupted by occupations during World War II, and restored in 1991. Since joining the European Union and NATO in 2004, Estonia has pursued integration with Western institutions and developed a technologically advanced economy.

Culturally, Estonian identity emphasizes language, folklore, and nature. Traditional song and dance festivals, literature, and crafts play important roles in national life, and many cultural practices were revived after regaining independence. The religious landscape has historically been predominantly Lutheran, though contemporary Estonia is diverse and increasingly secular in public life. The Estonian diaspora is active in Finland, Sweden, Russia, and North America, contributing to cultural exchange and economic ties with the homeland.